3 Day Ayers Rock Safari

Really experience the desert by travelling on dirt roads, staying at remote private camps complete with permanent safari tents, eating quality food cooked over a campfire and sleeping under millions of southern stars.

We'll visit all the best attractions; Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Kings Canyon in Wattarka National Park. All the while, travelling in small groups and creating some amazing memories and new friends.

Includes

Camping in swags or safari tents

Visit all the Best Highlights

Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Vegetarians OK

Uluru sunrise & sunset

Family Rates available( see Optional Extras )

Hot showers & flushing toilets

Electric plugs for charging

Knowledgable & experienced tour guide

Air-Conditioned Vehicle

100% Outback Experience

Trip length:

3 Days

Group size:

Max 21

Start:

Alice springs / Ayers Rock

End:

Alice springs / Ayers Rock

Vehicle:

Purpose Built 4-wheel Drive

Sleep:

Private camps with Safari style tents

Highlights

Meet the guide

View Memories

Itinerary

Day 1 (Lunch / Dinner)

After picking you up from your accommodation in Alice Springs bright and early at approximately 6.00am, we complete ticketing and introductions and then hit the road for an Outback tour of a lifetime. (For those commencing the tour at Uluru we will collect you from the Outback Pioneer Hotel or airport).

Our Red Centre tour begins by heading south to Erldunda travelling through the Waterhouse and James Ranges with a stop at the Camel Farm for refreshments and a camel ride if you're keen (own expense). Stop at Mount Ebenezer Roadhouse to view and shop for Aboriginal art. On the way to Uluru ( Ayers Rock ) we stop to view Atila (Mount Connor), a mesa tableland and the first significant rock formation of our Outback tour.

After a stop for lunch and our arrival at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, we head to the Cultural Centre to learn about the local Aboriginal law and religion (Tjukurpa) before a short, guided walk at the base of Uluru. Those choosing to climb will have the opportunity to do so, weather permitting. (Note: Uluru is a sacred site and Anangu, the indigenous custodians, respectfully ask visitors not to climb it).

Of course no Uluru tour would be complete without experiencing the famous changing colours of Uluru ( Ayers Rock ) at sunset, complete with sparkling wine and nibbles. It's a great time to kick back and contemplate the day and the vastness of the desert.

Erldunda Station

Outback Camel Farm

Mt Ebenezer Roadhouse

Mt Connor (Atila)

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Day 2 (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

From a lookout close to our campsite experience an Uluru ( Ayers Rock )sunrise before heading off to Kata Tjuta for a leisurely 7km walk through the "Valley of the Winds". After a stop at the resort for fuel and refreshments, we travel to Kings Creek Cattle Station to stay at a remote private camp, complete with bush toilet and shower. With nobody else for miles, this camp has stunning views out over the George Gill Ranges and gives you a real feel for the Outback. Swap stories with the tour group over a dinner around the campfire before spending another night out under the stars.

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Kata Tjuta (the Olgas)

Curtin Springs

Kings Creek Station

Outback Bush Camp

Day 3 (Breakfast / Lunch)

Travel to Watarrka (Kings Canyon) for a mind-blowing 6km walk through the towering walls, crevices and plateaus of Watarrka. We'll visit the Amphitheatre, Lost City and the tranquil ‘Garden of Eden’.

Later, travel back to Alice Springs on a typical outback dirt road. We'll drop you back to your accommodation in the early evening. Later on, take the opportunity to meet up with the tour group for a final night on the town in Alice Springs. This Outback tour has shown you the best of Central Australia – a Red Centre travel experience you’ll never forget.

MEALS

EQUIPMENT

OTHER

Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.

Trip Info

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have. To contact us please visit our contact page here.

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.

How much luggage can I take?

The less luggage you take the better. This makes it much easier for us to get around. However we do understand that this isn't always possible and so as a rule of thumb we restrict luggage to approx 10-15kg. If you think that you will be over this amount please let us know at the time of your booking and exceptions can be arranged.

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance.

If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

Generally you will not have enough time to do laundry whilst on tour. You will be having far too much fun! However, for longer tours heading towards Adelaide involving hostel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes if really need. Please enquire by contact us directly via email or phone.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

For all camping tours in the Northern Territory you will need a sleeping bag. The Northern Territory can get very cold at night, especially during the months of June and July. If you don't have one then they are available for hire. Please refer to the "What to bring" section of the tour page for pricing.

How fit do I need to be?

Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems or other casualties. Its highly recommended and can be organized through your travel agent.

Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

If you don't have travel insurance you may need to sign a waver at the beginning of your tour.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe.

This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.

For camping tours internet will not be available.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

If you are using Telstra as your mobile service provider than most likely yes! Their coverage of Australia is quite extensive so you shouldn't have too much trouble.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.

If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.

Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking a tour for more than 1 person, or if you are a single person booking multiple tours then we are happy to offer a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.

Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?

Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.

However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.

If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.

Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.

Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and its many facets. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on experience.

The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast - although there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.

As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.

What type of groups go on these tours?

Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!

Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?

We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.

Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.

For more information please contact us directly.

How many people will be on tour?

Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.

Is there an age limit?

We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Not really. The centre of Australia is quite dry and there is very few places where we are allowed to swim. However, for tours heading upwards towards Darwin there may be areas for swimming. If you aren't able to swim then you don't need to go into the water. In many cases there may be shallow areas when you can still get wet without having to actually swim. Please contact us for more information.

Cost and Fees

What does "Paid Locally" mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Will I need additional money?

Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.

Do I need to tip our guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

Whilst on tour

What type of tent will I get?

Tents are generally designed to accommodate a minimum of 2 people. This means there is plenty of room to move about and store your luggage. However, most Uluru tours we try and encourage the use of swags and mattress rather than tents. This is the ideal way to camp in the centre of Australia; Around a campfire, under the stars!

What will the food be like?

Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these Uluru tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner. We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.

Can you cater of special diets?

We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Additionally some tours have recommended accommodation and specials under the "Optional Extras" tab on the top right corner.

What form of vehicle do we use?

For our Uluru Tours we toss between a Troop Carrier 4WD Landcruise and a 4WD Mini bus. This depends on the size of the group and the amount of days we are out in the park. Each tour varies so please refer to your tour info panel on the top right hand side of the page.

Are there days where we travel for a long time?

During the first day we usually do a couple of hours driving to get out of the city and into the country side. However, once in the national parks, trips between attractions usually take between 30minutes to an hour.

For tours heading up to Darwin or down to Adelaide, expect periods where we drive for a few hours at a time. Australia is enormous and the distance between towns and attractions can be quite large. But don't worry, we take plenty of breaks so your able to stretch and move about.

For more accurate information please see tour itineraries.

What will the weather be like?

Between the months of April and August Central Australia is quite cold so be sure to bring warm clothing. Temperatures range from about 20c during the day right down to 2c at night.

Between October and March temperature are warm, so light clothing during the day is ok. However, night times can still be quite cool so its wise to bring light winter clothing for extra warm.

Where do I meet the tour?

Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.